D-Wave Quantum Inc. announced its participation as a founding member of the Southeast Quantum Collaboration (SQC). The organization also includes the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Davidson Technologies, IBM, and Alabama A&M University, with the goal of accelerating the advancement and application of quantum information science and technology in the southeastern United States.
The Southeast Quantum Collaboration will bring together resources from academia, industry, and government to promote the commercialization of quantum computing and cultivate relevant talent. Davidson Technologies has deployed the D-Wave Advantage2 system at its headquarters in Huntsville, Alabama, giving D-Wave a unique advantage in supporting SQC's quantum workforce development.
Jack Sears, Vice President of Government Business Solutions at D-Wave, stated: "Alabama has long been a leader in advanced technologies, and D-Wave is pleased to join the Southeast Quantum Collaboration to support quantum computing innovation in the region. Building a globally competitive quantum-ready workforce in the Southeast—capable of operating annealing and gate-model systems for mission-critical decision-making, operational optimization, and protecting national interests—is crucial to accelerating the adoption of quantum technology in both the public and private sectors. By investing in talent and infrastructure, the Southeast can become a national leader in quantum innovation, manufacturing, energy, logistics, and defense."
Dr. Rainer Steinwandt, Dean of the College of Science at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, noted: "SQC is committed to leveraging the region's defense infrastructure, missile defense expertise, and contractor base to accelerate the transformation of quantum technology into battlefield-ready capabilities. The collaboration aims to turn the southeastern United States into a global hub for quantum computing. As a founding member, D-Wave plays a key role in cultivating the next generation of quantum talent."
James Lackey, Senior Vice President of Davidson's Software Solutions Division, added: "The quantum-driven applications we have developed on the D-Wave Advantage2 annealing system have demonstrated the practical value of this technology in mission planning, operational optimization, and national security. By joining SQC, D-Wave strengthens the collaboration between industry and academia, which will accelerate quantum workforce development and translate quantum capabilities into operational advantages for personnel on the battlefield." SQC will provide a platform for collaboration across government, technology companies, and academia within the quantum ecosystem through expert lectures, roundtable discussions, and networking events.
